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Fieldwork

MAT–TESOL fieldwork is designed to support your growing development as a teacher with opportunities to conduct observations, tutor and carry out small and whole-group teaching in a variety of learning environments.

Beginning with the first term, you will practice applying theories and instructional methods in fieldwork assignments. As you film your teaching experiences and upload the videos for evaluation and discussion, you will gain supportive feedback on your practice as well as insights from your peers and instructors.

If you are pursuing a credential, you will be required to complete additional fieldwork in semesters two and three as part of the credential track curriculum.

Fieldwork Schedule

Semester one:

Tutor a language learner for one hour per week.

Conduct video-based observations and analysis of selected classrooms for discussion and reflection.

Design a classroom-based assessment, administer it in class, grade students’ assessments, and reflect on the results

Semester two:

Conduct a mini-ethnographic case study of a K-12 or adult student who is a language learner. The case study is organized around a theoretical focus with three sub-themes of analysis that examine the ELL’s social and academic experience as well as their linguistic development.

Tutor an English language learner and submit a series of written reports.

Carry out guided observations at your fieldwork site or another ELL/EFL setting each week.

In semester two, credential-seeking students will also:

Conduct observations, group work, co-teaching and student teaching.

Work with ELD credentialed teachers at their placement sites for four full days – from 30 minutes before bell to 30 minutes after bell – weekly from Monday through Thursday.

Carry out required fieldwork in other courses when concurrently enrolled.

Semester three:

In groups, design and co-lead a series of online learning experiences with partner classroom sites.

Carry out microteaching activities.

Conduct expert interviews by consulting with a more experienced peer, a guiding teacher at your fieldwork site, or another master teacher on selected issues.

Complete a summative assessment and a professional development project.

In semester three, credential-seeking students will also:

Conduct observations, group work, co-teaching and student teaching.

Work with ELD credentialed teachers at their placement sites for four full days – from 30 minutes before bell to 30 minutes after bell – weekly from Monday through Thursday.

Carry out required fieldwork in other courses when concurrently enrolled.

Fieldwork Placement and Support

As a student, you will benefit from USC Rossier’s strong partnerships with English Language Learner programs in the Los Angeles area, providing numerous opportunities for fieldwork placement with diverse populations.

Throughout your fieldwork, you will receive constant feedback from your USC Rossier faculty. You will be encouraged to take risks, try new teaching strategies and sharpen your teaching skills in a safe, supportive environment.